New tool aims to reduce opioid risks for older adults
NCT ID NCT05808127
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested two tools to help older adults (65+) on long-term opioid therapy use painkillers more safely. The PainTracker tool helps doctors focus on improving daily function and mental health, while the Opioid Misuse Measure screens for risky opioid use. Researchers studied 286 clinicians and 1,451 patients to see if these tools lead to more referrals for non-opioid treatments like physical therapy or counseling. The goal is to reduce harm from high-dose opioids without forcing patients to stop suddenly.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
PainTracker (a set of questions to guide safer pain care) and Current Opioid Misuse Measure (a screening tool)
What this could lead to
If successful, this approach could help older adults on long-term opioids get safer, more effective pain care with fewer risks.
What could go wrong
This is a completed study, but results may not apply to all patients or settings. The tools are behavioral, not a cure, and benefits may vary.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Northwestern Medicine
Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States